Upgrade front brakes

I agree. Only thing I'd add would be to insure the system is working well. Check that the pistons and calipers move smoothly, fluid isn't too old, and the drums are also adjusted and working well. If the fluid comes out the bleed all brownish, then bleed all four corners good.

As far as pads (and shoes) go. If they were produced by a participating member of the friction manufacturer's association, there will be a lining code on the pad. You can use the last two letters as a rough guide to effectiveness of the material. (or they will be positioned as shown in the link for the newest revision of the edge lining code).

Of the big companies, Centric did not particpate, but you can e-mail them. Smaller specialty companies generally don't mark them either.